Week 7 · Computer-Controlled Machining

Exploring large-scale fabrication with computer-controlled machining tools

Assignment Overview

This week focuses on computer-controlled machining, working with large-scale fabrication tools like CNC mills, routers, and other automated machining equipment. The goal is to understand the capabilities and limitations of these powerful tools for creating precise, large-scale projects.

Learning Objectives

The main objectives for this week include:

  • Understanding computer-controlled machining processes
  • Learning to work with CAM software for toolpath generation
  • Exploring material properties and machining considerations
  • Safety protocols for large-scale machining equipment
  • Design considerations for CNC fabrication

Project Documentation

This week I worked on computer-controlled machining, exploring the capabilities of CNC tools for large-scale fabrication. Here's the documentation of my process and results.

CNC machining setup
Setting up the CNC machine for the machining process.
Material preparation
Preparing the material and securing it to the machine bed.
Machining in progress
The CNC machine executing the toolpath and cutting the material.
Alternative view of machining process
Another perspective of the machining operation in progress.
Machining details
Close-up view of the machining details and surface finish.
Final machined result
The completed machined piece showing the final results.